Funding for the National Marine Manufacturers Association Canada (NMMA) in Bolton will help create good jobs, growth, and greater long-term prosperity for hard-working Canadians, MP says. David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin-Caledon, today announced that the National Marine Manufacturers Association Canada (NMMA)  received $64,000 to help industry members expand their footprint abroad, bring in new investment, and attract top talent.  “Our Government is committed to growing our economy and creating good, new, high-value jobs for hard-working Canadians,” said International Trade Minister Ed Fast.  “That is why we are helping our world-class marine sector expand and succeed abroad as a key part of our plan to open new markets around the world for our exporters.  The funding we are providing today will help with these efforts.”

This year, a total of 44 national industry associations from priority sectors of the economy will receive funding under the government’s Global Opportunities for Associations (GOA) program to help them undertake new or expanded international business development activities. Minister Fast made the national funding announcement on October 19 in Vancouver.

“Our Government is creating new opportunities for a key sector of our local and national economies by helping them expand internationally and making it easier for them to succeed in today’s global market,” said MP Tilson. “The success of the marine industry abroad will translate into new jobs, growth, and prosperity in our region.”

"Canadian marine manufacturers are pleased to have been given this opportunity to pursue international opportunities,” said Sara Anghel, Executive Director/Vice President Government Relations of the NMMA. “The economy is more global than ever and it is imperative our industry look beyond North America to ensure growth and jobs in Canada. NMMA Canada will be assembling a trade mission abroad, attending the Eurasia Boat Show and the Dubai International Boat Show in an effort to establish distributor business opportunities in these important international marine markets."

The GOA program provides matching funds of up to 50 per cent of eligible expenses to support national associations undertaking new or expanded international business development activities, in strategic markets and sectors, for the benefit of an entire industry. The maximum contribution is $150,000.

For more information, please consult: Global Opportunities for Associations